Fluid-filled lenses and actuation systems thereof

ABSTRACT

An actuator assembly for an adjustable fluid-filled lens is provided. In some embodiments, the actuator assembly includes a clamp configured to adjust the optical power of the fluid lens module when the clamp is compressed. In some embodiments, a magnetic element is configured to adjust the optical power of the fluid-filled lens. In some embodiments, a plunger changes the optical power of the fluid lens module. In some embodiments, a reservoir is configured such that deformation of the reservoir changes the optical power of the fluid-filled lens. In some embodiments, a balloon is configured to deform the reservoir. In some embodiments, an adjustable fluid-filled lens includes a septum configured to be pierceable by a needle and automatically and fluidly seal a fluid chamber after withdrawal of the needle. In some embodiments, a thermal element can heat fluid within a fluid chamber to change an optical power of the lens module.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/411,978 filed Nov. 10, 2010, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

Embodiments of the present invention relate to fluid-filled lenses, andin particular to variable fluid-filled lenses.

2. Background

Basic fluid lenses have been known since about 1958, as described inU.S. Pat. No. 2,836,101, incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety. More recent examples may be found in “DynamicallyReconfigurable Fluid Core Fluid Cladding Lens in a Microfluidic Channel”by Tang et al., Lab Chip, 2008, vol. 8, p. 395, and in WIPO publicationWO2008/063442, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety. These applications of fluid lenses are directed towardsphotonics, digital phone and camera technology, and microelectronics.

Fluid lenses have also been proposed for ophthalmic applications (see,e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,085,065, which is incorporated herein by referencein its entirety). In all cases, the advantages of fluid lenses, such asa wide dynamic range, ability to provide adaptive correction,robustness, and low cost have to be balanced against limitations inaperture size, possibility of leakage, and consistency in performance.Power adjustment in fluid lenses has been effected by injectingadditional fluid into a lens cavity, by electrowetting, application ofultrasonic impulse, and by utilizing swelling forces in a cross-linkedpolymer upon introduction of a swelling agent such as water.

The advantages of fluid lenses, such as a wide dynamic range, ability toprovide adaptive correction, robustness, and low cost have to bebalanced against limitations in aperture size, possibility of leakage,and consistency in performance.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In an embodiment, an actuator assembly for an adjustable fluid-filledlens includes a fluid lens module; a clamp surrounding the fluid lensmodule; a frame enclosing the clamp; and an actuator connected to an endof the clamp. In this embodiment, the actuator is accessible fromoutside the frame, the actuator is configured such that movement of theactuator relative to the frame causes the clamp to compress, and theclamp is configured to adjust the optical power of the fluid lens modulewhen the clamp is compressed.

In another embodiment, an actuator assembly for an adjustablefluid-filled lens includes a temple piece having a hollow center fluidlyconnected to the adjustable fluid lens; fluid located within the hollowcenter; a magnetic slider slidably attached to the temple piece; and amagnetic element slidably disposed within the hollow center andmagnetically coupled with the magnetic slider. In this embodiment, themagnetic element is configured such that movement of the magneticelement relative to the temple piece changes the optical power of thefluid-filled lens by increasing or decreasing an amount of fluid in theadjustable fluid-filled lens.

In another embodiment, an actuator assembly for an adjustablefluid-filled lens includes a fluid lens module; a temple piece having ahollow center fluidly connected to the fluid lens module; an actuatorrotatably attached to the temple piece; a base disposed in the hollowcenter and coupled to the actuator; a cable including a first endconnected to the base; and a plunger slidably disposed within the hollowcenter and connected to a second end of the cable. In this embodiment,the actuator is configured such that rotation of the actuator in a firstdirection relative to the temple piece causes the cable to wrap aroundthe base and pull the plunger in a first direction, and the fluid lensmodule is configured such that movement of the plunger changes theoptical power of the fluid lens module.

In another embodiment, an actuator assembly for an adjustablefluid-filled lens includes a fluid lens module; a housing including ahollow center fluidly connected to the fluid lens module; an actuatorrotatably attached to the housing; and a plunger located within thehollow center and magnetically coupled to the actuator. In thisembodiment, the plunger includes a threaded outer surface configured toengage with a threaded inner surface of the housing to allow for axialmovement within the housing, the actuator is configured such thatrotation of the actuator relative to the housing causes the plunger torotate relative to the housing via magnetic force to advance in an axialdirection within the housing, and the fluid lens module is configuredsuch that movement of the plunger changes the optical power of the fluidlens module.

In another embodiment, an actuator assembly for an adjustablefluid-filled lens includes a fluid lens module; a temple piece includinga hollow center having a bend therein; a reservoir disposed within thehollow center and fluidly connected to the fluid lens module; and aflexible pusher disposed within the hollow center. In this embodiment,the flexible pusher is configured to flex at the bend to compress thereservoir, and the reservoir is configured such that compression of thereservoir changes the optical power of the fluid-filled lens.

In another embodiment, an actuator assembly for an adjustablefluid-filled lens includes a temple piece including a hollow center; areservoir located within the hollow center; and a wheel rotatablyattached to the temple piece. In this embodiment, an axial face of thewheel includes protrusions configured to deform the reservoir as thewheel is rotated relative to the temple piece, and the reservoir isconfigured such that deformation of the reservoir changes the opticalpower of the fluid-filled lens.

In another embodiment, an actuator assembly for an adjustablefluid-filled lens includes a fluid lens module; a temple piece having ahollow center; a reservoir fluidly connected to the fluid lens module;and a pusher slidably disposed within the hollow center. In thisembodiment, the pusher is configured to move in an axial directionrelative to the temple piece to deform the reservoir and adjust theoptical power of the fluid lens module, and the reservoir is configuredto envelop the pusher as the pusher is moved against the reservoir.

In another embodiment, an actuator assembly for an adjustablefluid-filled lens includes a fluid lens module; a temple piece having ahollow center; a reservoir fluidly connected to the fluid lens module;an inflatable balloon adjacent to the reservoir; a pump connected to theballoon and configured to allow inflation of the balloon; and a pressurerelief valve connected to the balloon and configured to allow deflationof the balloon. In this embodiment, the balloon is configured such thatinflation or deflation of the balloon deforms the reservoir, and thereservoir is configured such that deformation of the reservoir changesthe optical power of the fluid lens.

In another embodiment, an actuator assembly for an adjustablefluid-filled lens includes a fluid lens module; a temple piece having ahollow center; a reservoir disposed in the hollow center and fluidlyconnected to the fluid lens module; a duckbill valve disposed in thehollow center and configured to allow for the introduction of air todeform the reservoir; and a pressure release valve connected to thehollow center and configured to allow for the removal of pressurized airin the hollow center to deform the reservoir. In this embodiment, thereservoir is configured such that deformation of the reservoir changesthe optical power of the fluid lens.

In another embodiment, an adjustable fluid-filled lens includes a fluidchamber; a frame surrounding the fluid chamber; and a septum disposedwithin the frame and fluidly connected to the fluid chamber. In thisembodiment, the septum is configured to be pierceable by a needle andautomatically and fluidly seal the fluid chamber after withdrawal of theneedle.

In another embodiment, an adjustable fluid lens module includes a fluidchamber containing fluid; and a thermal element configured to heat thefluid. In this embodiment, when the fluid is heated, the fluid expandsand deforms the shape of the fluid chamber to change the optical powerof the fluid lens module.

Further embodiments, features, and advantages of the present invention,as well as the structure and operation of the various embodiments of thepresent invention, are described in detail below with reference to theaccompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a partof the specification, illustrate embodiments of the present inventionand, together with the description, further serve to explain theprinciples of the invention and to enable a person skilled in thepertinent art to make and use the invention.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an eyeglassassembly.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the eyeglassassembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a clamp of the eyeglass assembly ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an eyeglassassembly along line 4-4 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another portion of aneyeglass assembly along line 4-4 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an eyeglassassembly of FIG. 1 along line 6-6 in a first configuration.

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of an eyeglassassembly of FIG. 1 along line 6-6 in a second configuration.

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a magneticactuator assembly.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the magnetic actuatorassembly of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of amagnetic actuator assembly.

FIG. 11 illustrates a partially transparent view of an embodiment of aneyeglass assembly.

FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of amagnetic actuator assembly of the eyeglass assembly of FIG. 11 alongline 12-12.

FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of amagnetic actuator assembly of the eyeglass assembly of FIG. 11 alongline 12-12.

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of anactuation system in a first configuration.

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the actuation system ofFIG. 14 in a second configuration.

FIG. 16 illustrates a partially transparent view of an embodiment of anactuation system.

FIG. 17 illustrates an exploded view of a wheel assembly of theactuation system of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of anactuation system in a first configuration.

FIG. 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of theactuation system of FIG. 18 in a second configuration.

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an actuationsystem.

FIG. 21 illustrates a portion of the actuation system of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of anactuation system.

FIG. 23 illustrates a front view of a fluid lens module.

FIG. 24 illustrates an exploded view of another fluid lens module.

FIG. 25 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluidlens module of FIG. 24 in an expanded state.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference tothe accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although specific configurations and arrangements are discussed, itshould be understood that this is done for illustrative purposes only. Aperson skilled in the pertinent art will recognize that otherconfigurations and arrangements can be used without departing from thespirit and scope of the present invention. It will be apparent to aperson skilled in the pertinent art that this invention can also beemployed in a variety of other optical applications.

It is noted that references in the specification to “an embodiment,” “anembodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodimentdescribed may include a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include theparticular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrasesdo not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, when aparticular feature, structure or characteristic is described inconnection with an embodiment, it would be within the knowledge of oneskilled in the art to effect such feature, structure or characteristicin connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitlydescribed.

Although 20/20 vision, which corresponds to an image resolution of 1minute of arc (1/60 degree) is generally acknowledged to represent anacceptable quality of vision, the human retina is capable of finer imageresolution. It is known that a healthy human retina is capable ofresolving 20 seconds of arc (1/300 degree). Corrective eyeglassesdesigned to enable a patient to achieve this superior level of visionhave a resolution of about 0.10 D or better. This resolution can beachieved with some embodiments of fluid filled lenses and actuationsystems of the present invention.

Clamp Actuator Embodiments

FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of an eyeglass assembly 10in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Eyeglassassembly 10 includes a frame 12, fluid lens module 14, actuator 16,connecting arm 18, and temple piece (or arm) 20. In operation, whenactuator 16 is moved in and up-and-down direction relative to connectingarm 18, the shape of fluid lens module 14 is changed. As the shape offluid lens module 14 is changed, the optical power of fluid lens module14 is changed. This operation is described further with respect to FIGS.2-7 below.

FIG. 2 illustrates an enlarged view of connecting arm 18 and actuator16. In an embodiment, actuator 16 is substantially rectangular and isslidably coupled with connecting arm 18. In an embodiment, actuator 16is disposed on an outside surface 22 of connecting arm 18. In otherembodiments, actuator 16 passes through connecting arm 18. As shown byarrow 24, in an embodiment, actuator 16 can move in an up-and-downdirection with respect to connecting arm 18. In another embodiment,actuator 16 can be moved horizontally with respect to connecting arm 18or can twist relative to connecting arm 18. In an embodiment, theactuator is accessible from outside the frame. For example, as shown inFIG. 1, actuator 16 can extend beyond the edges of connecting arm 18 sothat it is visible above and below connecting arm 18. In otherembodiments, actuator 16 can extend beyond connecting arm 18 in only asingle direction.

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a clamp 26 of fluid lens module 14.Clamp 26 includes a first portion 28 and a second portion 30 connectedby a hinge 32. First portion 28, second portion 30, and hinge 32 may allbe different sections of a lens frame. First end 34 is located on adistal end of first portion 28 and second end 36 is located on a distalend of second portion 30. Gap 38 is located between first end 34 andsecond end 36 to allow the ends to move towards or away from each other.In an embodiment, as actuator 16 is moved in a first direction, actuator16 moves one or more portions of clamp 26 to increase the width of gap38. As actuator 16 is moved in a second direction, actuator 16 moves oneor more portions of clamp 26 to decrease the width of gap 38.

As shown in FIG. 3, clamp 26 can be shaped substantially similarly toframe 12 of eyeglass assembly 10. This shape can allow for hinge 32 toprovide a restoring force via plastic or metallic bending. In otherembodiments, hinge 32 can allow for relative movement between first end34 and second end 36 without providing a restoring force. In anembodiment, first portion 28 and second portion 30 of clamp 26 are notdirectly connected. Instead, for example, first portion 28 can form itsown hinge via attachment to frame 12 or another portion of eyeglassassembly 10, rather than through attachment to second portion 30. In anembodiment, both first portion 28 and second portion 30 move relative toframe 12. In other embodiments, only one of first portion 28 and secondportion 30 moves relative to eyeglass assembly 10, the other portionbeing fixed relative to eyeglass assembly 10. The location of first end34 relative to second end 36 can be fixed in a desired position, via theuse of a detent or ratchet lock (not shown), which can be released byapplying suitable force to one or both of the ends.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of fluid lensmodule 14 along line 4-4. First portion 28 includes a first wedged end40 and a second wedged end 42. First wedged end 40 engages withdeformable membrane 44 so that when first portion 28 is moved up anddown, first wedged end 40 changes the shape of membrane 44.

Membrane 44 can be made of a flexible, transparent, water impermeablematerial, such as, for example and without limitation, clear and elasticpolyolefins, polycycloaliphatics, polyethers, polyesters, polyimides andpolyurethanes, for example, polyvinylidene chloride films. Otherpolymers suitable for use as membrane materials include, for example andwithout limitation, polysulfones, polyurethanes, polythiourethanes,polyethylene terephthalate, polymers of cycloolefms and aliphatic oralicyclic polyethers. Membrane 44 can be made of a biocompatibleimpermeable material, such as a cyclo-aliphatic hydrocarbon. In anembodiment, the thickness of the membrane can range between 3 to 10microns.

As the shape of membrane 44 is changed, the optical power of fluid lensmodule 14 is adjusted. In one embodiment, first wedged end 40 directlypushes on membrane 44 to deform membrane 44. In another embodiment,movement of wedged end 40 increases or decreases pressure within thelens cavity, causing membrane 44 to deform accordingly. In anembodiment, membrane 44 can be sized or shaped to bend in one or morepredetermined bending configurations. For example, when actuator 16 ismoved to a first position, membrane 44 can be deformed into apredetermined first configuration corresponding to a first desiredoptical power. When actuator 16 is moved to a second position, membrane44 can be deformed into a predetermined second configurationcorresponding to a second desired optical power.

Additionally or alternatively, a thickness of membrane 44 can becontoured so as to effect a spherical or other predetermined deformationof membrane 44. For example, in an embodiment, membrane 44 includes aninset portion that is more flexible than other portions of membrane 44,such that deformation of membrane 44 causes the shape of the insetportion to change in a spherical manner without substantially changingportions of membrane 44 other than the inset portions.

As shown in FIG. 4, second wedged end 42 engages with a first rigid lens46. Lens module 14 can further include a seal 47 between first rigidlens 46 and membrane 44. The rigid lenses described herein can be madeof glass, plastic, or any other suitable material. Other suitablematerials include, for example and without limitation, Diethylglycolbisallyl carbonate (DEG-BAC), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and aproprietary polyurea complex, trade name TRIVEX (PPG). One or more ofthe lenses described herein can be made of a conventional soft lensmaterial, such as silicone hydrogel cross-linked polymer having arefractive index from 1.42 to 1.46. The lenses can be made of an impactresistant polymer and can have a scratch resistant coating or anantireflective coating.

In some embodiments, first portion 28 can include other suitable shapesin order to deform membrane 44 instead of the wedged ends shown in FIG.4. For example, one side of first portion 28 can be wedged and the otherside can be substantially vertical or curved.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of fluid lensmodule 14 along line 4-4. Fluid lens module 14 includes first rigid lens46 and second rigid lens 48 separated by first portion 28 and secondportion 30. First rigid lens 46 and membrane 44 are configured to form alens chamber 50 therebetween containing a first fluid 52. A second fluid54 can likewise be contained between membrane 44 and second rigid lens48. The fluid used in fluid lens module 14 can be a colorless fluid, forexample air or distilled water. Other embodiments can include fluid thatis tinted, depending on the application. One example of fluid that canbe used is manufactured by Dow Corning of Midland, Mich., under the name“diffusion pump oil,” which is also generally referred to as “siliconeoil.” In some embodiments, the fluid can be an aliphatic polysiloxanehaving a refractive index matching the lens material. First fluid 52 andsecond fluid 54 can be the same. Alternatively, the fluids can bedifferent, for example first fluid 52 can be silicone oil and secondfluid 54 can be air. In an embodiment, membrane 44 is fluidly sealed tofirst rigid lens 46 as well as to second rigid lens 48. Membrane 44 canbe sealed to one or both rigid lenses 46, 48 by any suitable method,such as adhesive, ultrasonic welding, heat sealing, laser welding, orany similar process. One or more of membrane 44, first rigid lens 46 andsecond rigid lens 48 can be at least in part bonded to a support elementthat is in turn bonded to frame 12. Membrane 44 can be substantiallyflat when sealed but can be thermoformed to a specific curvature orspherical geometry. In some embodiments, one or more of membrane 44,first rigid lens 46, second rigid lens 48, first fluid 52, and secondfluid 54 can have the same refractive index.

The example shown in FIG. 5 does not require a separate fluid reservoirfor fluid lens module 14. In alternative embodiments, a reservoir can beincluded in eyeglass assembly 10, such as in clamp 26 or in temple piece(or arm) 20 to provide or store additional fluid. In such an embodiment,fluid lens module 14 can include a conduit to provide for fluid flowbetween the reservoir and the lens chamber 50.

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of fluid lensmodule 14 along line 6-6 in which membrane 44 is deformed in a firstconfiguration. In this embodiment, membrane 44 is pressed against secondrigid lens 48 and extends therefrom so that only one fluid lens isformed in fluid lens module 14. FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectionalview of a portion of fluid lens module 14 along line B-B in whichmembrane 44 is deformed in a second configuration. As described above,the deformation shapes can correspond to desired optical powers.

In an embodiment, the deformation of fluid lens module 14 can produce anon-spherical deflection. To counteract this, the front and/or backsurfaces of first and/or second rigid lenses 46, 48 can be aspherical tocorrect for any astigmatism created by the deflection. For example, inan embodiment, a front surface 56 of first rigid lens 46 can counteractastigmatism caused by deformation, whereas in another embodiment, a backsurface 58 can counteract the deformation. In some embodiments, frontsurface 56 is spherical and can have the same curve across its entiresurface. In an embodiment, back surface 58 is aspheric and has a morecomplex front surface curvature that gradually changes from the centerof the lens out to the edge, so as to provide a slimmer profile and adesired power profile as a function of the gaze angle, the gaze anglebeing defined herein as the angle formed between the actual line ofsight and the principal axis of fluid lens module 14.

In an embodiment, front surface 56 of first rigid lens 46 has a meniscusshape, i.e., convex at its front side and concave at its back side.Thus, both the front and the back surfaces 56, 58 are curved in the samedirection. Back surface 58 can be thicker in the center and thinner atthe edge, i.e., the radius of curvature of front surface 56 is smallerthan the radius of curvature of back surface 58.

In some embodiments of an eyeglass assembly 10, one or both left andright lenses are provided with their own lens module and/or actuationsystem, so that a lens for each eye can be adjusted independently. Anembodiment of this configuration can allow wearers, such asanisometropic patients, to correct any refractive error in each eyeseparately, so as to achieve appropriate correction in both eyes, whichcan result in better binocular vision and binocular summation.

In some embodiments, a fluid lens module 14 can be adjusted continuouslyover a desired power range by the wearer. An embodiment of thisconfiguration can allow a user to adjust the power to precisely matchthe refractive error for a particular object distance in a particularlight environment to compensate for alteration of the natural depth offocus of the eye that depends on the wearer's pupil size. In someembodiments, fluid lens module 14 can alternatively or additionally beused to provide image magnification outside the physiological range ofhuman vision.

In some embodiments, fluid lens module 14 can include separate lensregions that provide differing optical properties. For example, a firstregion can correct for near-sightedness, whereas a second region cancorrect for far-sightedness. Alternatively, one or both of the regionscan provide little to no optical correction. In another embodiment, theseparate regions are separated by a gradual change in opticalproperties.

Magnetic Actuator Embodiments

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate cross-sectional views of a magnetic actuatorassembly 60 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Magneticactuator assembly 60 includes magnetic slider 62 slidably disposed ontemple piece 64. Temple piece 64 is attached to a fluid lens module 66and includes a hollow center 68 in which fluid 70 and magnetic element72 are disposed. In an embodiment, magnetic element 72 is a solid magnetsuch as a cylinder or bar magnet slidably disposed within hollow center68. In this embodiment, hollow center 68 substantially conforms to theshape of magnetic element 72 in order to provide a substantial fluidseal between magnetic element 72 and temple piece 64. In operation, asmagnetic slider 62 is moved relative to temple piece 64 (for example,left or right as shown in FIG. 8), magnetic slider 62 exerts a force onmagnetic element 72 to move magnetic element 72. As magnetic element 72is moved, it acts as a piston to push or pull fluid 70 into or out offluid lens module 66. In some embodiments, magnetic element 72 moves inthe same direction as magnetic slider 62; in other embodiments, magneticelement 72 moves in a different direction from magnetic slider 62.

In an embodiment, magnetic element 72 is a ferrofluid. Suitableferrofluids can include liquids including nanoscale ferromagnetic orferromagnetic particles suspended in a carrier fluid, such as an organicsolvent or water. As a result, the ferrofluid can become stronglymagnetized in the presence of a magnetic field. In some embodiments, theferrofluid is non-miscible with fluid 70, which allows it to act like aplunger to move fluid 70 into and out of a fluid lens module. Forexample, like the embodiment described above, as magnetic slider 62 ismoved relative to temple piece 64, ferrofluid magnetic element 72 pushesor pulls fluid 70 into or out of fluid lens module 66. In someembodiments, ferrofluid magnetic element 72 completely seals the area ofhollow center 68. In some embodiments, a distal portion 74 of templepiece 64 can include an opening to allow for airflow within hollowcenter 68. One benefit of using a ferrofluid magnetic element 72 is thatthat in some embodiments it does not require a physical connectionbetween magnetic slider 62 and magnetic element 72. As a result, templepiece 64 can be completely sealed, thus reducing the likelihood ofleaking fluid 70. In an embodiment, for example, temple piece 64 isconfigured to fully enclose and seal the hollow center 68.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a magnetic actuatorassembly 61 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Likemagnetic actuator assembly 60 described above, magnetic actuatorassembly 61 includes a magnetic slider 63 slidably disposed on templepiece 65. Temple piece 65 is attached to a fluid lens module (not shown)and includes a hollow center 69 in which fluid 71 and magnetic element73 are disposed. Magnetic actuator assembly 61 additionally includes apusher arm 75 physically attached to both magnetic slider 63 andmagnetic element 73. In an embodiment, pusher arm 75 can provideadditional axial force to push and pull magnetic element 73. In anembodiment, pusher arm 75 can include a flat pusher end 81 havingdimensions conforming to the inner surface of temple piece 65. Inparticular, when magnetic element 73 is a ferrofluid, pusher arm 75 canprovide force in an axial direction while the ferrofluid creates a sealwithin hollow center 69. In an embodiment, pusher arm 75 is magnetic andmagnetically coupled to magnetic element 73 to facilitate movement ofmagnetic element 73. In an embodiment, a distal portion 79 of templepiece 65 includes an aperture 77 to allow airflow between an outsidesurface of temple piece and hollow center 69.

Screw Actuator Embodiments

FIG. 11 illustrates a partially transparent view of an eyeglass assembly76 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Eyeglassassembly 76 includes a fluid lens module 78, magnetic actuator assembly80, including actuator 82 which is rotatably attached to temple piece86, and a housing 84 fluidly sealed to temple piece 86 to preventleakage of fluid 89. Magnetic actuator assembly 80 is connected to aplunger 88 via a cable 90.

FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of magnetic actuator assembly80 along line 12-12. Magnetic actuator assembly 80 includes actuator 82and a base 96. In an embodiment, base 96 is sized to fluidly sealhousing 84. Each of actuator 82 and base 96 include one or more magnets98, 100 fixed thereon. Actuator 82 is magnetically coupled to base 96via magnet 98 and magnet 100. Base 96 is attached to cable 90 at step102 such that when base 96 is rotated in a first direction (for examplecounter-clockwise, as shown in FIG. 11) cable 90 is wrapped around step102. As cable 90 is wrapped around step 102, plunger 88 is pulledtowards magnetic actuator assembly 80. Likewise, when base 96 is rotatedin a second direction (for example clockwise), cable 90 is unwrappedfrom step 102. Magnetic actuator assembly 80 includes one or moresprings 92, 94 that provide a force to bias the plunger in apredetermined position as cable 90 is unwrapped. In certain embodiments,cable 90 can be rigid, such that as cable 90 is unwrapped from step 102,it pushes plunger 88 in a distal direction. In another embodiment,actuator 82 is not magnetically coupled to base 96. Instead, actuator 82is physically coupled to base 96. In some embodiments, actuator 82 isboth magnetically and physically coupled to base 96.

FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative magnetic actuator assembly 104.Magnetic actuator assembly 104 includes actuator 106 rotatably attachedto housing 108. Housing 108 includes a threaded inner surface 110configured to engage with a threaded outer surface 112 of a plunger 114.Actuator 106 is magnetically coupled to plunger 114 via magnet 116 and118. In another embodiment, actuator 106 can be coupled to plunger 114via a physical connection, such as a screw, that allows for actuator 106to transmit rotational movement to plunger 114 while also allowing foraxial movement of plunger 114 relative to housing 108. In operation, asactuator 106 is rotated, plunger 114 is likewise rotated and advancedalong threaded outer surface 112. As a result, plunger 114 can pushfluid 120 into or pull fluid 120 out of a fluid lens module (not shown).In an embodiment, plunger 114 can be attached to a pin 122 attached tohousing 108 for additional support.

Flexible Pusher Actuator Embodiments

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an actuation system 124 inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention in a first,uncompressed, configuration. Actuation system 124 includes a slider 126slidably coupled to a temple piece 128. Temple piece 128 includes ahollow center 130 that houses a flexible pusher 138 attached to theslider, and a reservoir 132 located near a distal end 134 of templepiece 128. Actuation system 124 can additionally include a plate 137configured to engage with pusher 138 to provide a desired pressuregradient over reservoir 132.

Reservoir 132 can also be made of a flexible, transparent, waterimpermeable material. For example and without limitation, the reservoircan be made of Polyvinyledene Difluoride, such as Heat-shrink VITON(R),supplied by DuPont Performance Elastomers LLC of Wilmington, Del.,DERAY-KYF 190 manufactured by DSG-CANUSA of Meckenheim, Germany(flexible), RW-175 manufactured by Tyco Electronics Corp. of Berwyn, Pa.(formerly Raychem Corp.) (semi rigid), or any other suitable material.Additional embodiments of reservoirs are described in U.S. PublicationNo. 2011-0102735, which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

Temple piece 128 further includes one or more bends 136 to contour adistal portion of temple piece 128 around a portion of the user's ear.Such contouring can minimize the likelihood of temple piece 128 slippingoff a user's ear. In other embodiments, bend 136 can be located at othersuitable areas within temple piece 128. In operation, as slider 126moves relative to temple piece 128, a flexible pusher 138 attached toslider 126 curves around bend 136 in order to deform reservoir 132,which then pushes fluid (not shown) through a tube 140 towards a fluidlens module (not shown) in order to change the optical power of thefluid lens module.

Tube 140 can be made of one or more materials such as TYGON (polyvinylchloride), PVDF (Polyvinyledene fluoride), and natural rubber. Forexample, PVDF may be suitable based on its durability, permeability, andresistance to crimping. In an embodiment, tube 140 can fit over an endof temple piece 128 to create a flush juncture there between. Tube 140can further act as a hinge for an eyeglass assembly in addition toproviding a conduit for fluid to flow between actuation system 124 andfluid lens module (not shown).

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view of actuation system 124 in asecond, compressed, configuration, wherein flexible pusher 138 isextended towards distal end 134 of temple piece 128.

Wheel Actuator Embodiments

FIG. 16 illustrates a partially transparent view of an actuation system142 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Actuationsystem 142 includes a temple piece 144 having a hollow center 146.Hollow center 146 serves to house a wheel assembly 148 and a reservoir150 located on a distal end 152 of temple piece 144. FIG. 17 illustratesan exploded view of wheel assembly 148 and reservoir 150. Wheel assembly148 includes a wheel 154, compression disk 156, and spring 157 which canbe used to bias compression disk 156 towards a predetermined location.

Wheel 154 includes one or more protrusions 158 located on an axial faceof wheel 154 to move compression disk 156 in an axial direction againstreservoir 150 when wheel 154 is rotated. For example protrusions 158 canbe in the form of a continuous sloped surface such that rotation ofwheel 154 results in smooth continuous axial movement of compressiondisk 156. Alternatively, wheel 154 can include discrete protrusions thatserve to move compression disk 156 in discrete increments. Ascompression disk 156 is moved in a first axial direction, it deformsreservoir 150. As reservoir 150 deforms, it pushes fluid (not shown)through a tube 160 towards a fluid lens module (not shown) in order tochange the optical power of the fluid lens module. In an embodiment,wheel assembly 148 does not include a compression disk 156 andprotrusions 158 contact reservoir 150 directly.

Foldable Reservoir Embodiments

FIG. 18 illustrates a cross sectional view of an actuation system 162 inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention in a firstcompressed position. Actuation system 162 includes a temple piece 164having a hollow center 166. Hollow center 166 serves to house areservoir 168 filled with fluid 170 and a pusher 172.

Pusher 172 can be moved axially relative to temple piece 164 such thatwhen pusher 172 is moved against reservoir 168, reservoir 168 folds 174over itself to envelop the pusher. As reservoir 168 deforms, it pushesfluid 170 through a tube 176 towards a fluid lens module (not shown) inorder to change the optical power of the fluid lens module. In anembodiment, pusher 172 is substantially cylindrical. In otherembodiments, pusher 172 has a substantially oval cross-section. In anembodiment, pusher 172 is affixed to a portion of reservoir 168 andconfigured such that the portion of the reservoir affixed to the pusherwill move with the pusher when the pusher is moved away from thereservoir.

FIG. 19 illustrates a cross sectional view of actuation system 162 in asecond compressed position wherein pusher 172 is extended further intoreservoir 168.

Pump Actuator Embodiments

FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate an actuation system 178 in accordance withanother embodiment of the invention. FIG. 20 illustrates a perspectiveview of actuation system 178 and FIG. 21 illustrates a portion ofactuation system 178. Actuation system 178 includes a first button 180and second button 182 located on face 184 of temple piece 186. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 20, buttons 180 and 182 are shown on an outerface of temple piece 186. In other embodiments, buttons 180 and 182 arelocated other surfaces of temple piece 186, such as the top, bottom, orinside surface. Temple piece 186 includes a hollow center (not shown)which houses a reservoir 188, a balloon 190, a pump 192, and a pressurerelief valve 194. In operation, a user can repeatedly depress pump 192using button 180 to inflate balloon 190, and depress pressure reliefvalve 194 using button 182 to deflate balloon 190. When balloon 190 isinflated, it deforms reservoir 188. As reservoir 188 deforms, it pushesfluid (not shown) through tube 196 towards a fluid lens module (notshown) in order to change the optical power of the fluid lens module.

FIG. 22 illustrates an actuation system 198 in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention. Actuation system 198 includes a templepiece (or arm) 200 having a hollow center 202. Hollow center 202 housesa reservoir 204, a pressure relief valve 211, a first duckbill valve210, a second duckbill valve 208, and a piston 212. Piston 212 isslidably disposed in temple piece (or arm) 200 to allow for movement ofpiston 212 in an axial direction. When piston 212 is moved towardsreservoir 204, piston 212 pushes air 214 through first duckbill valve210 to deform reservoir 204. As reservoir 204 deforms, it pushes fluid215 through a tube 216 connected to reservoir 204 towards a fluid lensmodule (not shown) in order to change the optical power of the fluidlens module. First duckbill valve 210 is configured to allow pressurizedair to pass through (from right-to-left as shown in FIG. 22) whilepreventing undesirable backflow (left-to-right flow). Additionalduckbill valves, such as second duckbill valve 208 can additionally oralternatively be used to pressurize hollow center 202. Actuation system198 further includes a pressure relief valve 211 configured to reducethe pressure in hollow center 202.

Septum Lens Embodiment

FIG. 23 illustrates a fluid lens module 218 in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention. Fluid lens module 218 includes a frame 220surrounding a fluid chamber 222. Fluid lens module 218 additionallyincludes a first septum 224 and second septum 226 disposed within frame220 and sealing fluid chamber 222. In some embodiments, one or both ofsepta 224 and 226 are configured to be pierceable by a needle 228, suchas a hypodermic needle to inject or withdraw fluid from fluid chamber222. Once needle 228 is removed from the septum, septum 224 isconfigured to seal itself closed to prevent leakage of fluid from fluidchamber 222. In an embodiment, septum 224 is flush with an outsidesurface of frame 220.

In an embodiment, the septa are rubber stoppers used to provide anair-tight seal for fluid chamber 222. In this embodiment, after piercingwith the needle, the rubber stopper closes the puncture, providing airand moisture-tight seal to protect the contents of the fluid chamber.The embodiment shown in FIG. 23 includes two septa on opposite sides offluid chamber 222. In other embodiments, fluid lens module 218 caninclude only a single septum. Additionally, in other embodiments, fluidlens module 218 can include multiple septa in different locations ororientations. As shown in FIG. 23, needle 228 can be connected to areservoir 230 via tubing 232. In other embodiments, needle 228 can beattached directly to reservoir 230 in the form of a syringe.

Thermo Fluid Lens Module Embodiments

FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate a thermo-fluid lens module 234 in accordancewith another embodiment of the invention. FIG. 24 illustrates anexploded view of thermo-fluid lens module 234 and FIG. 25 illustrates across-sectional view of a portion of thermo-fluid lens module 234 in anexpanded state. Fluid lens module 234 includes a thermal element 236disposed on a membrane 238 sealing fluid 240 against a first rigid lens235 within a fluid chamber 244. A second rigid lens 237 can enclosemembrane 238. When thermal element 236 is heated, the heat causes fluid240 to expand and deform the shape of membrane 238. As the shape ofmembrane 238 is deformed, the optical power of fluid lens module 234 ischanged.

In one embodiment, thermal element 236 is a single strand ofelectrically conductive wire 242. In this embodiment, a current ispassed through wire 242. As the current passes through wire 242, wire242 heats up in order to expand fluid 240. In one embodiment, a powersource for providing a current, such as a battery, can be located in aframe or temple piece of an eyeglass assembly including the fluid lensmodule (not shown). In an embodiment, wire 242 is arranged in a latticeshape 246 by criss-crossing the wire to create a grid-like appearance.In an embodiment, membrane 238 is configured to deform intopredetermined shapes corresponding to one or more desired opticalpowers. Membrane 238 can be configured to retain its deformed shapewithout requiring constant heat from thermal element 236 or canalternatively be configured to return to a predetermined shape afterthermal element 236 cools down.

In one embodiment, thermal element 236 can be configured to provide atemperature gradient for deforming membrane 238 into a desired shape.For example, wire 242 can include areas of increased or reducedthickness so that more or less heat can be applied to a specific area ofmembrane 238. Lattice 246 can additionally be formed into a specificpattern to achieve a desired temperature gradient. For example, the rowsand columns forming lattice 246 can be formed closer together near thecenter of lattice 246.

In another embodiment, thermal element 236 can include a series of cellsthat can independently be heated or otherwise activated via an electriccurrent to deform membrane 238. In this embodiment, fluid 240 can be aconventional silicone oil. Alternatively, fluid 240 can be a ferrofluidexhibiting a magnetic attraction to an activated cell within thermalelement 236 in order to deform membrane 238 into a desired shape.

In another embodiment, thermal element 236 can incorporate one or moreelectrical components, such as diodes, triodes, and transistors in orderto allow for greater control of the temperature gradient over fluid lensmodule 234. The thermal element 236 described herein can be made smallenough, for example out of micromaterials or nanomaterials, that itsappearance on the user's eye when the user is wearing fluid lens module234 is unascertainable.

The choice of materials for each of the pieces in the embodiments of theassemblies described herein can be informed by the requirements ofmechanical properties, temperature sensitivity, optical properties suchas dispersion, moldability properties, or any other factor apparent to aperson having ordinary skill in the art. For example, the pieces of thevarious assemblies described can be manufactured through any suitableprocess, such as metal injection molding (MIM), cast, machining, plasticinjection molding, and the like. The assemblies can be any suitableshape, and may be made of plastic, metal, or any other suitablematerial. In some embodiments, lightweight material can be used such as,for example and without limitation, high impact resistant plasticsmaterial, aluminum, titanium, or the like. In an embodiment, one or moreof the parts can be made entirely or partly of a transparent material.

The foregoing-described aspects depict different components containedwithin, or connected with, different other components. It is to beunderstood that such depicted architectures are merely exemplary, andthat in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achievethe same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement ofcomponents to achieve the same functionality is effectively “associated”such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any twocomponents herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can beseen as “associated with” each other such that the desired functionalityis achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermediate components.Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being“operably connected”, or “operably coupled”, to each other to achievethe desired functionality.

It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and notthe Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpretthe claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or morebut not all exemplary embodiments of the present invention ascontemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit thepresent invention and the appended claims in any way.

The present invention has been described above with the aid offunctional building blocks illustrating the implementation of specifiedfunctions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functionalbuilding blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenienceof the description. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as thespecified functions and relationships thereof are appropriatelyperformed.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fullyreveal the general nature of the invention that others can, by applyingknowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and/or adapt forvarious applications such specific embodiments, without undueexperimentation, without departing from the general concept of thepresent invention. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications areintended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of thedisclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presentedherein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminologyherein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, suchthat the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is tobe interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings andguidance.

The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited byany of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be definedonly in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. An actuator assembly for an adjustablefluid-filled lens, the actuator assembly comprising: a temple piecehaving a hollow center fluidly connected to the adjustable fluid lens;fluid located within the hollow center; and a magnetic actuatorassembly, wherein the magnetic actuator assembly comprises: (i) amagnetic slider slidably attached to the temple piece; (ii) a magneticelement slidably disposed within the hollow center and magneticallyinteracting with the magnetic slider; (iii) a pusher arm, wherein themagnetic actuator assembly is configured so that the pusher arm providesa force in an axial direction during the operation of the magneticactuator assembly; and wherein the magnetic element is configured suchthat a movement of the magnetic element relative to the temple piecechanges the optical power of the fluid-filled lens by increasing ordecreasing an amount of the fluid in the adjustable fluid-filled lens.2. The actuator assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic element isconfigured such that a first movement of the magnetic element in a firstdirection pushes the fluid into the fluid-filled lens and a secondmovement of the magnetic element in a second direction pulls the fluidfrom the fluid-filled lens.
 3. The actuator assembly of claim 1, whereinthe magnetic element comprises a ferrofluid.
 4. The actuator assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the magnetic element is configured to create a fluidseal between the magnetic element and the temple piece.
 5. The actuatorassembly of claim 1, wherein the temple piece is configured to fullyenclose and seal the hollow center.
 6. The actuator assembly of claim 1,wherein the pusher arm is physically attached to the magnetic slider andthe magnetic element.